23.02.2026 15:06
Dick Advocaat, who made history for the country by taking Curaçao to the 2026 World Cup, resigned from his position due to health issues concerning his daughter.
Coach Dick Advocaat, who took Curaçao to the 2026 World Cup, resigned from his position due to his daughter's health issues.
"FAMILY ALWAYS COMES BEFORE FOOTBALL"
In a statement made by the Curaçao Football Federation, it was announced that the 78-year-old Dutch coach left his position for family reasons.
Regarding his decision, Advocaat stated, "I have always said that family comes before football. Therefore, it is a natural decision. However, this does not change the fact that I will miss Curaçao, the people there, and my colleagues very much. I consider taking the world's smallest country to the World Cup as one of the most significant achievements of my career."
"HE MADE HISTORY"
Curaçao Football Federation President Gilbert Martina commented, "The decision should be respected. Advocaat made history with the national team. Curaçao will always be grateful to him."
HISTORICAL ACHIEVEMENT
Curaçao, which earned the title of the smallest country to qualify for the FIFA World Cup, will compete in the tournament for the first time in its history. Another Dutch coach, Fred Rutten, has been appointed to lead the team.